Retail Profile Europe Ltd

Case Studies

2007 | 2008

Charlie & Ben | Little Impressions | Flutterbyes

Man’s Best Friend Leads to Big Sales

Success in online retailing led husband-and-wife team Mark and Debbie Nelson to try their own designer petwear shop – and with Retail Profile they found themselves with more creative opportunities than they could have found alone.

Charlie & Ben turned out its first range of canine clothing in 2006, and quick sales had the Nelsons ready to expand. However, after intensely searching for vacant properties in their area, the couple couldn’t find a location suitable for what they had in mind. Shopping one day in the Metro Centre gave them the idea of opening a retail merchandising unit (RMU) instead.

A quick meeting with leasing representative Jackie Gallone later, the two considered their RMU options and started a lease for the Metro Centre’s Blue Mall in April 2007. The product range became an instant hit with customers and helped the Nelsons fund a second unit in the Bridges shortly after.

The growing success of the business spurred Debbie to develop her own pet clothing designs. The first Charlie & Ben Branded collection launched from the RMU in October 2007.

With increased popularity, Charlie & Ben outgrew the RMU. The Nelsons eventually chose a permanent shop in the Metro Centre’s The Village in April 2008, where they continue to expand their business.

“The year we spent on the RMU was a brilliant launch pad for us in that we got to test the market, without having to commit to a long lease,” says company director Mark.  “We will have no hesitation in using Retail Profile again when we look to bring our product range to other areas of the county.”